The Houston City Council approved a tentative plat Monday for a housing project that was outlined by its developers.
Susan and Jack Warkentin met with the council following a meeting last week that saw the effort receive approval from the Houston Planning and Zoning Commission. Phase I of the project includes eight homes, and they would be located at Holder Drive and North Industrial Drive.
The council is expected to give final approval to the effort after the completion of some engineering work.
In other matters, members:
-Heard that work will begin to secure easements from 11 property owners for necessary rights-of-way for an extension of Thomasville Road to Holder Drive and north of Orscheln Farm and Home. The project would begin once property rights are secured. The city says the effort will improve traffic flow in an area that has seen much development over the years; most recently construction of a building that will house an A.G. Edwards office.
-Are studying the affects of a proposed rate increase from the city’s wholesale electric supplier, Sho-Me Power Corp. of Marshfield.
-Approved an agreement with the Texas County Animal Shelter to assume care of lost and stray animals recovered in the city. The city will pay the shelter $200 monthly.
-Will examine an ordinance that would prevent large rigs from using compression release brakes, commonly known in the trucking business as “jake brakes.” The city has received complaints about the noise. If approved, signage would be put in place and violators would be subject to penalties.
-Heard that the city is in need of recruits to undergo training to become firemen. Additional manpower is needed to serve the department. Persons with an interest should contact Fire Chief Don Rust.
-Approved use of the Houston Storm Shelter should the Houston branch of the Texas County Library be approved for a traveling exhibit associated with the Missouri Humanies Council.
-Continue to work on completion of the 2008 budget. Final ratification is planned for Dec. 17.
-Heard from County Commissioner Don Shelhammer, who outlined a change in state statutes that he said doesn’t allow that body to oversee the county rescue squad. The county has asked the City of Houston to take control of the operation. The matter remains under review.